BARNABY Joyce’s estranged wife and daughters have spoken out on Tuesday morning, saying they’re “devastated” by the news he and his new partner are expecting a child.

Natalie Joyce was married to the New England MP and Deputy Prime Minister for 24 years before they separated in 2017.

In a statement to The Leader, she said her family felt “deceived and hurt”, but have asked for privacy at this difficult time.​

“I am deeply saddened by the news that my husband has been having an affair and is now having a child with a former staff member,” Mrs Joyce said.

“I understand that this affair has been going on for many months and started when she was a paid employee.

“This situation is devastating on many fronts.

“For my girls who are affected by the family breakdown and for me as a wife of 24 years, who placed my own career on hold to support Barnaby through his political life.

“Our family life has had to be shared during Barnaby’s political career and it was with trust that we let campaign and office staff into our homes and into our lives.

“Naturally we also feel deceived and hurt by the actions of Barnaby and the staff member involved.

“The situation for myself and the girls will be made worse by the fact that this will all be played out in public so at this time, I would ask that the girls and I are given some privacy and time to come to terms with the consequences and take steps to plan our future.”